Farewell EMS Angel

Emergency Medical Services

Siren Issue 5 Oct/ Nov 2011 Farewell EMS Angel

“God calls his angels home and leaves the rest of us to continue struggling to learn the lesson”

Every day we wake up with no idea what the day holds for us. On Tuesday August 9, 2011 what would have been a normal day in EMS turned out to be a dreadful one for staff and family members. The service stood still with emotions flooding as 20/08/1975 – 9/08/2011 the day unfolded and everyone was alerted of remember.”, Alastair Christians, Kevin’s Rescue an accident involving the college vehicle. By the Shift Officer. end of the day Kevin Price, Rescue Technician in the city, ALS college student, colleague and “Kevin was a great person and he was down to friend to many was fighting for his life in Vincent earth and modest. If he got a new pair of shoes, Palotti Hospital. On and off duty greens flocked he would not shine it until it was needed. For to the hospital in support of Kevin and his family. him, there were always more pressing matters After spending most of the day at the hospital, the to tackle. He was doing selfless work and saving news came through that he did not make it. The lives”, colleague Darron Pick. entire service stood still knowing that this lively and determined young man had left us. Described by “No one I’ve met came close to having the type colleagues as passionate about his work and the of passion and dedication to emergency medical service he provided. services as Kevin. He has left a legacy to aspire to, which was evident in the amount of EMS personnel An ILS False Bay Volunteer for five years, two years that paid their respect at his funeral. There is a on an ambulance in the Western Division and lesson to learn from his life. He focused on the three years as a Rescue Technician, Kevin Price big picture and never worried about a creased finally got onto the ALS course. A long held dream shirt or blood on his boots. Think about the lives for him. you save as a result of the blood on your boots”, Fabian Higgins Family, colleagues and friends all shared similar encounters with Kevin, proving his consistence in “He was a friend that I could confide in. If I felt personality and character. down and I spoke to him he would always cheer me up and I would focus on something else. We “He was a fantastic person, willing to do anything. are like family on the shift. It was shocking to hear He was dedicated and passionate on and off that he had left us. I realised that the time we duty and always had a smile on his face - A smile have together as a rescue family is precious and I that he gave whether he was commended or will always miss him.” Alfred Jefta. reprimanded and a smile that I will always Continued on page 2 www.westerncape.gov.za play those values and we should be heard against GREETINGS FROM THE the wave of perversion of normal social behaviour. DIRECTOR OF EMS Like going green was a step by step process, re- vitalizing society will require a sophisticated, com- It’s amazing how things plex and enduring process of reestablishing values. evolve with time. Percep- tions and contexts change We need to CARE …with integrity, competence, with time. Green was first respect, accountability, responsiveness! proposed by Mr Webster as the appropriate Medical Lets Green the Province with peace! Livery for EMS uniforms and everyone thought Dr Cleeve Robertson he was crazy and DIRECTOR accused him of landing Martians on our planet! However with time the Green THREATS THREATS  Drugs, Alcohol, Family  Informal Settlements People have become very visible and easily Conflict, Social dis-  Gangs cohesion  Drugs, Alcohol identifiable with the function.  Culture

It was interesting at the FIFA WC 2010 to see that

•Infrastructure •Social Context EMS were clearly identifiable by our uniforms in Biological Context NON Birth Chilhood •Economic Adolescence Context •Environmental Context VIOLENCE comparison to other services who all wear blue Context or black and from a public access point of view Violence is a that's very important. EMS personnel now identify LEARNING INTERVENTION LEARNT BEHAVIOUR with being green as evidenced in this issue and INTERVENTION  School there is a clear identity and ownership. Green is  Individual and collective level  Alcohol management  Home through CBS  Sport The Story of David  School Nurse  Recreation politically and environmentally correct!  Social Worker  Entertainment  Early Childhood Development  After School Program

 Social Spaces  Housing I must admit to being a bit skeptical in the  Safety and security beginning but having seen the public and service  Exposure to peace response to being green I think its growing on us! Excuse the pun!

We've now visited every station in the Province this Continuation of Farewell EMS Angel year and consistently personnel are well turned (Front page) out and proudly Green! Well done! Even our On the day of Kevin’s memorial service, in response times are in the Green! honour of Kevin’s dedication and contribution Our Motto should be the Quality Lean Green EMS to emergency medical services, Cape Town Machine… Rescue and the College joined in procession to the church from the False Bay Volunteer I'm very conscious of the surrounding pages in relation to our recent personal loss and injury and I EMS ambulance base, the organisation he was think the content in these articles do justice to Kevin volunteer and Chairperson to. Four Rescue as an example of what we would wish to be in the Technicians escorted the hearse on EMS service of society. We deal with death every day in motorbikes while classmates in the ALS course our work sometimes to the point where we've just had enough and then when it touches us directly walked behind. Outside the church, EMS its not easy to deal with. Death has its place and personnel honoured Kevin by performing the as Steve Job said it replaces the old and makes ceremonial Guard of Honour, in respect of the way for the new, if that only referred to computers life lost in emergency medical services. it would be easier! I think what death should do for us is motivate in us the value of life and there's no doubt that in this century life has less value. EMS Management would like to extend their Objects, money, things seem to have more value condolences to the Price family and friends. Our than people and we need to restore the balance. words may not console but Kevin’s spirit will live As EMS personnel we stand positioned as ideal advocates for human value and steering on through those that have been touched by his attitudes towards people centeredness. The levels life and passion for emergency medical services. of violence and abuse in our society do not dis-

2 Newsletter Oct/ Nov 2011 LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Writing this quarters Editor’s letter has been one of the hardest as it has been a trying and emotional quarter for the service. I am reminded of a quote by Deepak Chopra that summarises this quarterly newsletter well, “We forget sometimes that there are saints by constantly breaking the glass ceiling (see page living among us. When we meet them, we are 4 & 5). reminded, not just of the presence of pure divinity right here on earth, but also of our own I’d like to dedicate this letter to the lady greens. potential, and of the responsibility we have to Stop being apologetic - Every time you pick up try to live up to it”. It reminds me of Kevin Price, the Jaws of Life or a stretcher do it with enough Rescue Technician in the City and ALS student enthusiasm to prove that you are as worthy in who we have loved and parted too soon the positions that you keep. At times women are (Front Page). A man that touched many lives in victims of domestic violence, rape, marginalisation the service and industry. A man that’s passion and vulnerability but in these times, in this industry, exceeded his role in emergency medical you play the role of a saviour - as a medical care, that made his life’s work serving others practitioner - Wear the badge with pride. and who has left a legacy to be respected and continued by his colleagues and I would like to extend gratitude to every division peers. I am reminded of the volunteers who and district that has contributed to this issue of constantly provide support without monetary the Siren. Never before, have I received so many compensation but continue to dedicate their letters, articles and photographs, you have truly lives to nurturing others (see Page 15). I am made this newsletter your own and inspired me to reminded of the staff that came together keep on sharing your stories. on Mandela Day and Women’s Month to work over and above their job description to Yours sincerely, provide services to the communities. And I Keri Davids am reminded and inspired by the women in Communications Officer service who have challenged the EMS industry

Procession to the memorial

Guard of Preparing for the memorial Honour

Newsletter Oct/ Nov 2011 3 LADY excellence in the work you do.”

GREENS Barbara Lessing, Northern Division District Paramedic and Registered Nurse On August 9, 1956 twenty thou- sand South African Women marched to the Union Building in Pretoria singing “Wathint’Abafazi Wathint’imbokodo!”Now famously referred to as, “When you strike a woman you strike a rock”, a representation of the power of women in South Africa. With focus on August as women’s month, WC Government Health: emergency medical services shine a light on the women in our service who have gone the extra mile to prove their worth in a male dominated environment. We profile four females in the ser- Barbara Lessing or more endearingly known as vice: “Barbie” joined the service in 2000 as a qualified nursing sister and BLS Practitioner. She continued Sharon Sampie, Acting District Manager for to complete her Intermediate Life Support; Basic HealthNET Medical Rescue, Advanced Life Support and Flight Paramedic courses to advance in her career – Evidence of her dedication to the EMS profession. Although Barbie believes that women have the same opportunities as men in the service, she still finds that one of her biggest challenges is having the physical strength to lift heavy patients/ stretch- ers and encourages that women keep in shape and stay mentally and emotionally fit. “Stop saying you cannot do things because you are female. Un- derstand that your scope of practice is exactly the Sharon joined the service in the mid-eighties as same as men in the service”. “Do not stand back for a Reservist and volunteered for a year before anyone. Go for what you want and believe in.” “I being permanently appointed. She became the would like to thank Mr Papu for requesting that I do first female paramedic in the province in 1994 an interview at EMS after completing the BLS certifi- and then first female Manager appointed. “In cate course. I was currently employed as a full time the nineties it was quite a battle to be accepted midwife at Christian Barnard Memorial Hospital and because historically the Service was male driven since joining the service, have not looked back. So and I had to prove myself to be physically and many doors have opened, bringing new opportu- mentally capable of doing the job. Today the nities every day. You acknowledged my need to opportunity to qualify as a Paramedic is equally grow professionally and gave me the opportunity open to women as it is to men. I had a rough to excel” time in the beginning and always ended up with what everybody else did not want. This includ- Shakira Hartley – Southern Division Paramedic and ed partners, vehicles and where to work yet I City Rescue Technician always made a conscious decision to enjoy the experience”. Sharon gives some sound ad- Starting out as a volunteer in the service Shakira vice to women currently in service, “Behave in Hartley moved steadily up the career ladder and a ladylike manner at all times to be respected become the second female Rescue Technician by managers and colleagues. You have been in 2009, and then paramedic at the end of 2010. trained, just like your male colleagues to do “There wasn’t any direct competition whilst study- the full job – don’t stand back and let the men ing the Rescue Technician qualification. As students do what you are also trained to do, get right in we were expected to achieve irrespective of our there and do your share. Work hard. Do your sex and I had to work hard to prove myself. I was absolute best at all times. Respect your col- constantly doing more than the men as I wanted to leagues & superiors. Don’t misconduct and challenge them and not be an average achiever. if you do, accept responsibility. Learn from We’ve opened up doors for women in the rescue your mistakes. Humble yourself and strive for base and we challenge other females to join. Keep

4 Newsletter Oct/ Nov 2011 on learning and edu- cating yourself in your Are we reluctant to profession, then you will become a force to be help? reckoned with. ” Shakira encourages women in The HPCSA confirms that healthcare profession- service to change their als are deemed by the council to have a legal, mindset and embrace moral and ethical duty to intervene when they are the challenges. “Con- off duty and chance upon a medical emergency. stantly challenge your environment. Once you Could local healthcare practitioners be reluctant to get the job, you are go- render assistance during an after-hours emergency ing to enjoy it more if you because of the reluctance of their overseas coun- are passionate about it. terpart? In the US, for example, healthcare practi- Do not become com- tioners could face a fortune of medical litigation by placent. There is always unscrupulous lawyers, known as ‘ambulance chas- something you can do and work hard to set ex- ers’, who are after big business. cellent standards by which others will either challenge or rise up and meet the challenge. It is not According to the HPCSA, there have been no about physicality” She believes that she has bro- recorded incident in South Africa- of which the ken the glass ceilings in all aspects of her profes- council is aware - where legal action has been sion and if there ever there is more glass to break, taken against healthcare professionals who have “if they train me, I can do it”. “Thanks to Mr Ivan rendered assistance while off-duty, or of cases Naidoo who motivated and mentored me while where something went wrong because a health- studying the ALS certificate course. Delwyn Hay- care professional reacted inappropriately. ward, who constantly motivated and assisted me with the medical component on course. I would Dr Cleeve Robertson, the director of the Western also like to thank Vernon Naidoo who always had Cape Metro Emergency Medical Services, agrees. an open door policy and all the Rescue Techni- “The failure of healthcare practitioners to render off cians in the Cape Town base that assisted me. duty emergency care is often related to insecurities regarding their abilities,” he suggests. “I think some Sipokazi Rayi – Intermediate Life Support lack the confidence to deal with emergencies Practitioner in the Southern Division District because their initial training in emergency medicine was very poor and the currency.” Sipokazi joined the service in 2005 and trusts that there are opportunities for females in EMS, Robertson says that a practitioner’s response to evident as more women are being trained and an emergency is more about common sense and placed in management positions. Sipokazi be- team work and less about resources. lieves men still marginalise women in the industry, that it is still a male dominated environ- He offers the following advice: “The brain is the ment and considered a man’s job by many. Yet best tool at an emergency scene, so a doctor with Sipokazi promotes that if you are firm, eager to a good brain can often direct junior personnel, learn and find the opportunities you can excel who may have good skills but less decision-making in the industry. “I have learnt that you must treat experience. It becomes a team game.” everybody equally irrespective of colour, race and gender. As women we must not be afraid He also emphases the importance of the of change because it opens up doors to grow, basics: knowing who to call for help and very basic learn and improve standards in the emergency emergency care procedures save the most lives.” medical service industry.” She still believes that more posts should be provided for ladies in the Health Professions Council of South Africa service, that women can be trained to take up management positions, adding a subtle and balanced approach to the industry.

“I am reminded of a famous quote by Malcolm X, when you teach a boy, you teach an individual but when you teach a girl, you educate a nation”.

Newsletter Oct/ Nov 2011 5 Human Papilloma Virus MADIBA DAY (HPV) and cervical cancer Dr Hennie Botha. Head Unit for Gynaecological Oncology, Tygerberg Hospital

South Africa has one of the highest rates of cervical cancer in the world. It is estimated that 1 out of every 26 SA women will develop cervical cancer during their lifetime. An infection by cancer causing types of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection, may over time lead to abnormal changes in the surface cells of the cervix which further develop into cancer. HPV infection can also cause other types of cancer in men and women and is quite common in young Cape Winelands people but is usually cleared by normal immunity. If the infection does not clear, someone will have a risk of cancer. Remember that smoking adds to the risk.

The Pap smear is a well-known test to detect warning signs of cervical cancer. Most women will know about the potential of Pap smears to prevent cervical cancer and should be encouraged to get tested. There are new tests available to check for HPV and it can be used together with Human Resources Pap smears to identify those people that are at risk for developing cancer.

There are two HPV vaccines available to protect against cancer causing HPV. The vaccines are very effective in preventing infection in the first place. Unfortunately HPV vaccines will not cure someone who is already infected with the virus. It may help to prevent new infections with other types of the virus. When someone has an abnormal Pap smear they should get examined by a West Coast doctor who will decide if treatment is necessary to remove the abnormal cells.

No woman should get cancer of the cervix. Encourage prevention amongst your colleagues and peers.

Facts about Cervical Cancer:

•16.84 million South African women, 15 years and older are at risk of developing cervical cancer. Western Division - E & F shift •5743 are diagnosed and 3027 die from cervical cancer every year. •It is the 2nd most ranked cancer in women in South Africa between the ages of 15 and 44 – Breast cancer being the first. •About 84% of Cervical Cancer cases occur in developing countries.

WHO – World Health Organisation report published in September 2010 Northern Division

6 Newsletter Oct/ Nov 2011 Women encouraged to flex their financial muscles With the focus on financial planning for women during Women’s Month, Old Mutual provides the “Financial vulnerability is one of the greatest following financial tips: challenges women face today. While women have more opportunities to be leaders than previ- 1. Budget – If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. ous generations had, there are more pitfalls, says Budgeting is an essential step to financial success. It Karabo Morule, Strategy and Marketing Execu- prevents excessive spending and wastage. tive at Old Mutual. 2. Self-control – Don’t buy anything on credit the “As we celebrate women’s month in August, we minute you want it. Wait until you’ve actually want to encourage women to empower them- saved up the money. selves financially as too many women still rely on others to take care of their money matters. 3. Save for retirement now - Compound inter- Whether you have a partner or not, your income est works for you in that you earn interest on the Cape Winelands is critical and can be impacted by severe illness interest already earned. The sooner you start, the or disability,” Morule says. sooner you will be able to retire.

Although 70% of women have at least one store 4. Guard your health – You want to enjoy the fruits card compared to 58% of males, women are of your labour, your investments as well as your more likely to contribute to stokvels than men. children and their children. You also want to en- Women are also more likely to save for funeral sure that you protect your income-earning ability, policies and children’s education, while men so that you continue to draw a salary even if you tend to save for home deposits and cars. Howev- are unable to do so. er, more women compared to their male coun- terparts are planning to support their parents. 5. Guard your wealth – Make sure that your hard- earned money does not vanish. Save more than “As women we should empower ourselves and inflation and ensure that you are invested in the create our own financial future so that we can right products that suit your risk profile. take care of our loved ones and ourselves in old age. There is no magic formula, just discipline and proper financial planning – the key elements in ensuring a secure financial future,” Morule adds.

It begins with preparing a household budget, settling short term debt like store cards, and working towards reducing longer term debt like bonds on your house. This allows you to adopt better spending patterns and more constructive use of your hard-earned money.

Once you have prepared a budget and a plan for working towards settling your debt, you can focus on addressing all your financial needs such as life, disability and critical illness cover, as well as saving for the future. All of this must be under- pinned by a valid and current will.

No one can predict the future, but there are two critical elements you should consider – protect- ing your income and earning ability - and saving for old age.

“Retirement planning is a crucial part of this planning. A financial plan allows you to cope Karabo Marule with life’s challenges,” concludes Morule. Strategy and Marketing Executive Old Mutual

Newsletter Oct/ Nov 2011 7 ACADEMIC ACCOLADES THANK YOU GREENS FOR YOUR OUTSTANDING WORK

Abraham Josias & Jongephi Mntubu graduate with Motor Mechanic certificates

Alfred Jephta (Cape Town Rescue) is Christo Bothma (HR) represented South awarded heavy vehicle extrication Africa in the India Invitation Cup 2011 certificate (In door cricket)

8 Newsletter Oct/ Nov 2011 NEW ZEALAND RESCUE EMS YOU HAVE MADE A CHALLENGE 2011 DIFFERENCE IN MY CAREER

I am currently studying the Rescue Modules at the The South African EMS College and completed Basic Medical Rescue Team - and the High Angle 2 this year, a one week course with the Provincial Rescue Manager Mr Neville Van Princess Gongqo Rensburg. The information Mr Van Rensburg taught & Darryl Bowyer us in class is always on my mind. I still remember how he explained the heavy duty truck extrication procedures, giving us practical exercises to understand how to use the rescue tools.

On completion of the course I was given the week- Princess Gongqo, end off but had to resume work on Monday as a Cape Town Rescue night shift rescue practitioner. On that Monday and Darryl Bowyer, around 01H32am we received a call. A truck had Cape Winelands over turned and there were people trapped inside. Rescue represented Fortunately when that call came I had already EMS Rescue in the taken the heavy duty course. It was the same type 2011 World and Australian Road Rescue Chal- of call as the practical I had done a week prior at lenge, held in Wellington, New Zealand in July. the college. They successfully participated in the Trauma Challenge, organising their own funds to repre- During the course we were taught how to deal with sent SA in EMS Road Rescue. “I admire them. They • LGV incident prepared for their own career development and • Scene assessment and safety will do well in serving their communities”, said Nev- • Stabilization and initial access ille “Kussie” van Rensburg, EMS Provincial Rescue • Glass management Manager, who was an assessor for the challenge. • Space creation Management would like to thank Princess and • Full access Bowyer for participating and representing the • Immobilization and extrication service. Rescue plans to send another team to • Scene assessment and safety London for the 2012 Rescue Challenge. • Type of truck • Type of construction/ load • Position of truck The team • Other vehicle involved & Mentor • Engine off/shut off (Neville • Type of load Van Rensburg) I can now manage to create space and full access: with the • Displacement of dash board Japenese • High A pillar cut team • Low A pillar cut • Glass management

This method assisted me in removing the trapped patients from the truck. It is all Thanks to Mr. Van Rensburg and my Manager who gave me the opportunity to attend the heavy truck rescue course.

Francis Mokoenyane Beauford West Central Karoo District

Newsletter Oct/ Nov 2011 9 THE SIGNIFICANCE OF competence 1,2. Clinical documentation assists CLINICAL DOCUMENTATION the process of quality improvement by allowing the evaluation of clinical practice and identification of possible patient safety concerns.

Some ideas on improving clinical documentation: SOAP (subjective, objective, assessment and plan) notes are a well-known and regularly used method of clinical documentation4,5. The different sections of the standard PGWC Patient Care Report (PRF) form is designed in a similar manner and the discus-

CAMPLE History:

C – Chief complaint

Complete and accurate clinical documentation A – Allergies is a fundamental element of quality in pre-hos- M – Medications pital emergency medical care. It encompasses both a clinical and administrative role1,2. The P – Past Medical History importance of clinical documentation is often overlooked and regularly neglected. Patient L – Last meal care report forms should provide a full account of the patient’s medical history, physical exami- E – Events leading to nation and medical care provided while in the care of emergency care practitioners as well as sion below is aimed at providing some assistance to show evidence of continual clinical monitoring. improve writing of clinical notes. Emergency Care protocols, published by the Health Professionals Council of South Africa, state S – Subjective: that documentation of care provided to patients Subjective information is the details we obtain from in the pre-hospital setting are a professional obli- interaction with the patient and/or their family4,5. gation and legal requirement3. The focus is to record, with the necessary detail, the patient’s medical history. A method of obtaining One of the biggest challenges of proper clinical this information is the mnemonic, CAMPLE documentation is time. Daily, we care for and The focused history is an elaboration of the chief transport numerous patients and are regularly complaint, an example is the use of the well known pressed for time. However, we need to remain mnemonic PQRST-A, to obtain a history on pain. vigilant in ensuring that each patient’s pre-hos- In patients with chronic illness, determine their pri- pital emergency medical care is well document- or baseline medical condition and/or any recent ed. changes in medical condition. Also document any recent changes/adjustments to medication or Purpose of clinical documentation in EMS: changes in respond to medication. Aim to describe the physical position the patient was found in, upon Clinical documentation forms the basis of com- arrival on-scene and the patient’s general appear- munication between health care professionals ance, e.g. found inside the house, sitting in a tripod and facilitates continuity of care 1,2. It enable position, appearing acutely ill and anxious etc. In the emergency care practitioners to supply doc- the case of trauma ensure that a clear description tors and nursing professionals with a complete of the event is provided, e.g. one light motor vehi- and clear description of the medical emergen- cle involved, vehicle left road & rolled ± 10 m down cy which the patient present with. Information a steep embankment, the patient was found out- regarding the mechanism of injury in a motor side & ± 4 m from the vehicle on rocky terrain. vehicle accident, for example, noted on the documentation may provide significant benefit O – Objective: towards diagnosis and patient care. Importantly, This section includes measurable and observable it demonstrates a practitioner’s level of profes- information obtained through a physical examina- sionalism as well as accountability and respon- tion and includes documentation of vital signs4,5. sibility for your own professional practice and Remember to document the time vital signs were

10 Newsletter Oct/ Nov 2011 THE SIGNIFICANCE OF CONTINUED... ment provided to the patient with the necessary CLINICAL DOCUMENTATION details4,5. For example, state the percentage and rate of oxygen administered, the size OPA inserted Focused history of pain (PQRST-A) or clearly state how the patient was extricated from the vehicle. Furthermore, it is important to ensure P –Provoke, palliate and positional that we document any observed changes in the Q – Quality patient’s clinical condition after intervention or after the administration of medication. Continuous moni- R – Radiation, region and referral toring and reassessment must be documented. In addition, ensure that you write with a black ball S – Severity point pen and if a mistake is made, draw a straight line through and initial next to it6. Make sure that T – Temporal factors: Time of onset, duration, clinical documents remain confidential and that progression and previous episodes your hand writing is legible6. The EMS standard op- A – Associated symptoms erating procedures state that a PFR must be completed for each and every call and patient6. And in order to address possible allegations against prac- obtained as well as repeated vital signs as required titioners for not transporting patients to hospital, by the patient’s condition. Physical examination ensure that you complete the PRF for patients you can be document according to the system exam- refuse transport with due diligence. ined. For example, documenting the respiratory examination according to what the practitioner Although writing detailed notes is time-consuming found on Inspection, Palpation, Auscultation and and it receives little emphasis in training, we need to Percussion. understand its value and necessity. We must make A – Assessment: every effort to improve the proficiency and quality Aim to note the possible diagnoses as determined with which we formulate clinical notes and continu- through the medical history and physical exami- ally grow as professionals. Always bear in mind that nation4,5. “if you didn’t document it, you didn’t do it.” P – Plan: Clearly document all emergency manage- ANDRIT LOURENS Quality Improvement Manager - Cape Winelands COMMUNICATIONS:

What does service delivery mean to us at EMS ambulance after falling down a flight of stairs. That Communications? elderly lady is now in hospital recovering from a hip replacement. Ask yourself that question. What did you come up with? Service delivery is a vital part of the work that we do. It should be the core objective of how we It’s about putting ourselves in the "callers shoes". work and it should be a fundamental part of our work ethic. What do they experience when we take the wrong details, prioritize the call incorrectly, delay We play a very important role in EMS and the dispatching of an ambulance and not follow service delivery starts with communications, in every up with that ambulance? centre in the Western Cape. We should feel proud of what we do. Ask yourself: “Am I really It starts from the moment the call takers retrieve providing qualitative service delivery to the com- a call or more negatively, when they refuse to munity? Would I want myself to be the first point of answer a call from the community. reception when I have a medical emergency?”

Ask yourself " what if it was a close relative calling Let's make ourselves proud and deliver a service in need of EMS?" that millions of our callers can have faith in. Let's keep working hard and strive to do better. We recently received complaints of patients waiting up to 14 hours to be transported Dexter Timm and a 90 year old lady waiting 5 hours for an Provincial Communications Manager

Newsletter Oct/ Nov 2011 11 WOMEN’S DAY EVENT FOR WEST COAST LADY GREENS A ladies event came to mind when we knew that something like this was not held in EMS. Tina (Sup- py Chain Clerk), Meagan (acting SDECP Vreden- burg), Lionel (AEA and staff health and wellness coordinator for West Coast) and Andrit (Admin clerk) got all the ladies together from West Coast EMS, from Bitterfontein up to Malmesbury.

Partaking in the activities for the day Beauty tips were given by another guest speaker, Heidi from the fragrance boutique. She was also the judge for Miss EMS. Mrs H Steenkamp (acting Healthnet manager) was awarded Miss EMS, Veronica Barlow (ILS, Vredenburg EMS) was second runner up and Anina Nortier-Balie (West Coast staff development co-ordinator) was chosen as the first princess.

The lucky chair game had the ladies jumping up West Coast lady greens enjoy the day off and looking under their chairs for a small paper. If you were lucky to find a small yellow paper The day started off with a short programme at under your chair you would receive a gift. We had the Skilpad hall in Vredenburg. The tables were a great laugh when 6 ladies voluntary came up to all lined out with black tablecloths and maroon participate in a game. Ladies had to draw a paper overlays. The particulars on the table such as out of a box and only open the paper when their chips, juice, coffee, muffins and flowers were all chance came. We laughed out loud when Abi- donated by staff. gail Van Niekerk (BLS Malmesbury) out of the 6 had to sing Micheal Jackson song and do the “moon Andrit welcomed the ladies present and read walk”. the speech from Mr Pedro as he was not able to attend the event due to exams. The ladies were Mr Pedro (WC District Manager) had supported us flattered by his words and became quite inspired wonderfully, he also asked the managers to give inspired as the speech was read. Sister their ladies off for this day. After the short program Crossley (Prov. Chief Nurse) was a guest speaker and we enjoyed lunch at Boston Barbeque, Club Myko- inspired the ladies with her speech on RESPON- no’s. We look forward to doing this next year again. SIBILITY. Lional (staff health and wellness) then We had great fun. proceeded with his speech telling the West Coast ladies that they are responsible for their own actions.

Green ladies from West Coast District

12 Newsletter Oct/ Nov 2011 PAARL COMMUNITY WESTERN DIVISION TREAT THE ACTIVITY FOR THE QUARTER WOMEN OF GARDEN VILLAGE

On July 22nd, Paarl station personnel held On August 8, Western Division staff spent a day an EMS awareness workshop at the Boland treating the women of the Garden Village neigh- College. We were invited to mentor the grade 12 bourhood, held at the local creche, Village Tots. students about drug abuse; educate them about The women were treated with lunch, cake, tea, choosing a career in emergency medical ser- gifts, dance and some inspiring words by the vices and to demonstrate a few life saving Principal of the school. An initiative organised by techniques. Western Division Station Officer, Karen October, division staff pitched in to assist gladly. Mr Griffiths The presentation covered various career paths brought smiles to everyone’s faces as he danced in EMS and education on the abuse of Meth- with the ladies. amphetamine (Tik), demonstrating the before and after effects of its usage. The Principal of Village Tots, Carol Booysen shared an inspirational message to the guests, encour- The EMS crew taught the learners CPR, bleed- aging them to believe in their purpose in society ing control and Basic First Aid. Many of the fe- - “Women create positive social structures that male students displayed a keen interest in EMS build communities, paving the way for future Rescue and seemed impressed by the techni- South African leaders (the children of the na- cal component. tion)”.

We feel that this is a stepping stone in the right direction when we inform our community of what we really do, when to call, what to ex- pect and what they can do while waiting for an ambulance. In this way we know that we are shaping the perception of EMS in the community and lessening the perception that we are only “drivers”.

Cape Winelands Management would like to thank the staff that participated in the awareness project. It was a job well done.

Staff give Medical & Rescue demonstrations to the students

Newsletter Oct/ Nov 2011 13 THANK YOU ROHLANDT thank you greens for FAMILY FOR YOUR your outstanding work DONATION

EMS management would like to thank the I would like to convey my sincere appreciation to Rohlandt family (of late Johannes “Kieper” two of your staff for the excellent and extremely Rohlandt, Rescue Technician in the city) for their efficient services rendered when one of our cli- generous donation of out door tables and chairs ents had a medical emergency. The crew re- to Southern Division and a wall clock for the city’s sponded to my call within 5 minutes and acted in Rescue base. a friendly and professional manner. Well done to Herschel Sampson and Jefferine Claasen. Keep On August 17, Ms Rohlandt presented the up the good work! donation to the City Rescue base and Southern Division which included a finger luncheon. Mr Tanette Burden Naidoo, Southern Division District Manager pre- Service Advisor sented a certificate of appreciation to the Roh- Parow Branch landt family. First National Bank

I have a one and a half year old baby boy who is very sick and on “home oxygen”. I do appreciate the staff who work for EMS as they have helped District Managers and Ms me many times to get my son to the hospital. I’ve Rohlandt always had problems with getting through to the call centre through the MTN network.

Things have changed recently because the paramedics are now familiar with me and I call them regularly to assist with my problem. They gave me the direct number to the call centre so that I have no problems getting an ambulance to my house.

Once I’ve logged the call, the paramedics arrive within two minutes and I am grateful for what they are doing for my son.

I would like to thank the paramedics and the Control Centre staff for going the extra mile and rendering an excellent and caring service.

The call taker was Ms Samuels and Dispatcher Mr Lutta.

Regards,

Nosipho Skepe and her son Mpho Jonathan

14 Newsletter Oct/ Nov 2011 thank you greens for working togetheR AS your outstanding work ONE

It is good to see that the public service is not as “Everybody cannot be famous but everybody bad as everyone makes it out to be. Instead I think can be great, you must be able to produce a Emergency Medical Services is world class. good service to become a great person” says Ezra Fredricks who has been volunteering for 14 On Wednesday July 27, 2011, we requested years. ambulance assistance, within 5 minutes the ambulance was on the scene and ready help. It Volunteers devote considerable time, effort and was nice to see things taking place quickly. skill to contribute to the success of EMS and of society. They selflessly offer their services with no I would like to thank the crew that attended to the expectations and they impact positively on the call, Mr M. S. Makinana and Mev. M. Le Roux was success of the service. Fredricks enjoys the sense caring and acomodating to the patient, they re- of satisfaction and fulfillment he gets from helping ally made it easier to believe in and trust public others but it is also his passion to help the injured emergency medical services. and sick that inspired him to volunteer.

Thank you for your great service, it was truly Volunteers are an important part of EMS because awesome. they assist the service in continuing to serve the communities. Hospitable greens makes this jour- Greetings, ney a warm and memorable experience for volunteers by welcoming them in their stations and Willem van Wyk accepting them in the EMS family. This keeps our volunteers motivated and they get work done. “I love the people at EMS. They have taught me a lot and they continue to teach me. I always look ROBERTSON SHOW forward to my shifts” says Nick Sales who has been volunteering for EMS for two years. He says he never walks away from any call not having learnt something and he finds every way to share his passion and love for EMS.

Ziyaad Adams joined the service in 2009. He has become so involved and attached to his shift that he cannot imagine doing anything else. He would love to become a permanent staff mem- ber because he enjoys working in the organisation. “I would consider myself lucky to be paid to do what I enjoy the most” said Adams. Working in this service is like a calling for him.

Our societies would be such great places if we could stand together. Let us raise the spirit of UBUNTU. Let us work together to make the difference in our communities. Julian Slater has been volunteering for the past 12 years. He says volunteering should be for the love of helping people and bettering our communities. “Do not go after the money but do it for the love and passion” said Julian.

It is an honour to have such wonderful people in our service who are driven by passion and love to help others. We should continue to make them a part of our family. We should acknowledge them for being part of the movement that makes a difference in so many lives.

Newsletter Oct/ Nov 2011 15 WELL DONE EMS!

Management would like to acknowledge the Overberg, Southern Division and Cape Winelands staff for their hard work and dedication

COLIN POWELL LEADERSHIP WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! ADVICE Have something to say? Voice your 1. It ain't as bad as you think. It will look opinion. better in the morning. Send us all your ideas, article leads 2. Get mad, then get over it. (tips), stories and photographs to: 3. Avoid having your ego so close to your position that when your The Siren [email protected] position falls, your ego goes with it. 083 286 4227 4. It can be done! alternatively articles and photographs 5. Be careful what you choose. You may get can be dropped off at: it. Room 112 Communications Officer 6. Don't let adverse facts stand in the way EMS Head Office of a good decision. Karl Bremer 7. You can't make someone else's choices. Bellville You shouldn't let someone Cape Town else make yours. Please note: Due to space constraints 8. Check small things. and editorial discretion, not all articles 9. Share credit. will be published. 10. Remain calm. Be kind. Thank you to everyone that contributed to 11. Have a vision. Be demanding. this issue of the Siren. It is much appreciated. 12. Don't take counsel of your fears or nay- sayers. 13. Perpetual optimism is a force multiplier.

16 Newsletter Oct/ Nov 2011